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[Bakers Edition' 

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opy 1 



The Templeton Teapot 



Price, 15 Cents 




COPYRIGHT, 1889, BY WALTER H. BAKER & CO. 



ft. UK Pinero's Plays 

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No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts 



The Templeton Teapot 

A Farce In One Act 



By 

GRACE COOKE STRONG 

Author of "Marrying Belinda" etc. 



BOSTON 

WALTER H. BAKER & CO, 

191? 



7$ fe3 r ( 
The Templeton Teapot 



CHARACTERS 

Horace Templeton, a collector of antiques. 
Prof. Algernon Gates, bashful but persistent. 
Leon Burnett, a neighbor of the Temple ions' . 
Eric Dean, Burnett's brother-in-law. 
Mrs. Templeton, Templeton s wife. 
Hilda, his daughter. 
Sue, his spinster sister. 
Fanny Burnett, Burnett s wife. 

Time : — Summer evening of present year. 




Copyright, 1912, by Walter H. Baker & Co. 



£>CI.D 3135 7 



The Templeton Teapot 



SCENE. — Library in the Templeton home, a comfortable old' 
fashioned room, reflectirig its owner' 's love for the antique. 
A door at R. leads itito the hall ; another door L., opens into 
an adjoining room. For furniture, a large desk strewn 
with books and papers, several easy chairs, and shelves con- 
taining books. Hie room is decorated with pieces of old 
china, dignified candlesticks, and various old-fashioned 
articles. In a prominent position on the mantel is a quaint 
silver teapot. 

[As the curtain rises, Mr. Horace Templeton is seated at 
his desk writing, surrounded by several ponderous refer- 
ence books. Mrs. Templeton enters l., carrying a large 
basket packed with cast-off clothing.) 

Mrs. T. {setting basket on floor near door r.). Hilda ! 

(Goes to L.) Hilda! Horace, have you seen ? (In 

despair.) Oh, it's of no use. Sue ! (Enter Sue, l.) Sue, 
have you seen anything of Hilda ? 

Sue. She came in here after dinner. 

Mrs. T. (looking out r.). She must have gone out, for her 
wraps are not in the hall. How unfortunate ! 

Sue. She will be at home presently. (Looks at basket.) 
I wouldn't leave that basket there, Celia. If — if Professor 
Gates should happen to call this evening he would surely stum- 
ble over it; the dear man is so near-sighted. 

Mrs. T. (moving basket from door). It's only a few things 
that I've collected for poor Mrs. McLaffety. She's to send her 
boy for them. Did Professor Gates tell you that he was com- 
ing this evening ? 

Sue (moving about nervously). Why, no — doesn't he 
usually call on Tuesday evenings? 

Mrs. T. (sitting down). Yes; and on Wednesday evenings 



4 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

and Thursday evenings and Friday — I declare, I'm so worried 
about Hilda that I can't keep track of anything. 

Sue (in surprise). Hilda? 

Mrs. T. Yes, Hilda. For weeks she has not been herself. 
I know that she has something on her mind, but I can't find 
out what it is. Her father is no help {Sound of door- 
bell.') I'm sure that's the evening paper; will you kindly get 
it, Sue ? (Exit Sue, r. Mrs. T. rises hurriedly and goes to 
desk.) Horace. (Pause.) Horace! 

Mr. T. (without looking up). Yes, yes. 

Mrs. T. (in exasperation). Will you give me your atten- 
tion one moment? 

Mr. T. (impatiently pushing aside his work). Celia, how 
many times must I tell you that I'm preparing an article for the 
press, entitled, "The Philosophy of our Forefathers as Re- 
vealed by their Kitchen Utensils," and that I cannot endure 
this constant interruption? (Resumes work.) 

Mrs. T. You shall listen to me. Do you ever wonder at 
the increasing frequency with which Professor Gates calls here ? 

Mr. T. (impatiently). Well, Gates is a good fellow — fine 
family — most distinguished — that sort of thing. 

Mrs. T. Very true, and moreover, he is in love with 
Hilda. 

Mr. T. Nonsense ! He's twice her age. 

Mrs. T. That doesn't matter. Hilda is old for her years; 
besides, she's in love with him. 

Mr. T. You must be mistaken. 

Mrs. T. (emphatically). I am not. Didn't you hear me 
telling Sue that Hilda is unhappy, moody, incomprehensible ? 
Those are symptoms — trust me. 

Mr. T. Well ? 

Mrs. T. I'm trying to determine your attitude toward this 
marriage. 

(Sue appears unnoticed in door r., the paper in her hand.) 

Mr. T. (irritably). You speak as if it were a settled thing. 
Mrs. T. It is — practically. 

Mr. T. Well, all I have to say is, if Professor Gates marries 
Hilda, they shall have the teapot. 

(Resumes work. Sue gives a little cry.) 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 5 

Mrs. T. {turning violently). Sue, you frightened me. 
Sue. You were speaking of Hilda's marriage? 

{Lays newspaper on desk. Sits down.) 

Mrs. T. Yes ; we have the prospect of seeing her settled 
most comfortably. 

Sue {in agitation). I wouldn't — you mustn't — she's too 
young. 

Mrs. T. {sitting down and picking up the newspaper). Not 
at all. {Glances through paper.) Of course, since you've 

never married, you naturally think {Springs from her 

chair.) For heaven's sake, Horace, the Wentworths were 
robbed last night of a thousand dollars' worth of silver ! 

Mr. T. {rising hastily and seizing paper). It can't be pos- 
sible. Let me see ! 

Mrs. T. {weakly). Burglars ! 

Sue. It's the third robbery on this street within a week ! 

Mr. T. {gloomily). We shall be the next victims, I am 
confident. Oh, why have I not carried the teapot to the safe 
deposit vault ? 

Mrs. T. {indignantly). The teapot ? I think that we have 
other articles quite as valuable as the teapot. 

Mr. T. {pacing the floor in great agitation). Celia, are 
you crazy ? Consider that teapot, which graced the tables of 
the English nobility in the seventeenth century when tea was 
first introduced into Europe, which passed into the hands of 
the Puritans in Cromwell's time, and was brought to this coun- 
try in 1680, and which has been in our family for over two 
hundred years ! Why, it's worth its weight ten times over in 
gold ! {Picks up teapot and examines it lovingly.) 

Mrs. T. I'm sure that no burglar would ever want it. My 
rings are another matter. 

Sue. We'll have to sit up all night. 

Mr. T. {replacing teapot on mantel). This shall not stay 
in the house another day. Fool that I have been to keep it so 
long. 

Mrs. T. I'm more anxious about Hilda — out we know not 
where, and bandits on every corner. {Noise without.) Ah, 
here she is now. {Enter r., Hilda and Prof. Algernon 
Gates in street costumes, the latter perceptibly agitated.) 
Hilda, I'm so relieved that you have come. Good-evening, 
Professor. 



6 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

PitOF. G. (bowing nervously to every one). Good-evening. 
Oh, my dear Mrs. Templeton, such a painful experience for 
poor Miss Hilda ! 

Mus. T. What has happened ? 

Mr. T. Some one please explain. 

Prof. G. [sinking into a chair near Sue). A most horrible 
fright ! {Mops his forehead. ,) 

Mrs. T. I command you, Hilda, to tell me where you have 
been. 

Hilda (excitedly removing her wraps and tossing them and 
her purse in different parts of the room). Such an adventure, 
mother. I was crossing Elm Street in the shadow of the sta- 
tion, when a horrible man brushed against me, and, before I 
could prevent him, grabbed my purse, and was endeavoring to 
tear my watch from my waist 

Mrs. T. Mercy on us, has the child been robbed? 

Hilda. He would have gotten away in a moment, had not 
a tall gentleman suddenly appeared from somewhere, who 
seized the ruffian and held him until the officer that my screams 
had summoned arrived. 

Mrs. T. Then what did you do ? 

Hilda. The strange gentleman had just offered to escort 
me home, when we met Professor Gates, who was kind enough 
to take me under his protection. 

Mr. T. But your rescuer, child ? To whom are you 
indebted ? 

Hilda. I was so excited that I quite forgot to ask his name. 

Prof. G. An unpardonable oversight on our part, Mrs. 
Templeton. 

Mrs. T. That is unfortunate ! The whole affair is most 
horrible. 

Hilda. Horrible? I think it's splendid ! 

All. Splendid ? 

Hilda. It was an adventure. I'd never had one before ; 
and, mother, he was so handsome ! 

Mrs. T. The robber ? 

Hilda. No, no, the man who caught him. He was so big 
and masterful — quite the most attractive man that I have ever 
seen. 

Mrs. T. (glancing apprehensively at Prof. G.). Hush, 
dear, hush. You are all unstrung. You must lie down for a 
few moments. (Draws Hilda toward l.) You'll excuse us, 
Professor ? 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 7 

Prof. G. Certainly. (Rises affably). I trust that our 
dear young lady will suffer no ill effects from this experience. 
Mrs. T. Sue, will you please bring Hilda's wraps ? 

(Sue rises and gathers up Hilda's belongings. Exeunt 
Mrs. T., Hilda and Sue, l. Prof. G. watches them 
from door.) 

Prof. G. A most remarkable young woman — Miss Temple- 
ton — marvelous self-control. 

Mr. T. {sitting down at desk and looking longingly at his 
work). True, and a most alarming occurrence. Hilda shall 
not go out alone again. 

Prof. G. (moving about nervously). You cannot be too 
careful. And now, Mr. Templeton (pausing by desk and 
clearing throat several times), there is something — in fact-^— I 
must explain — to be brief, I love Miss Templeton. If it meets 
with your approval, I shall be most happy to make her my 
wife. 

Mr. T. Well, well, Mrs. Templeton has hinted at this. 
But, my dear Professor, have you thought of the disparity 
in ages ? 

Prof. G. (delightedly). Considering the marked congeni- 
ality of our tastes, that is hardly worth mentioning. 

Mr. T. I fear she may prove reluctant 

Prof. G. (beaming). I have already ascertained her senti- 
ments ; she is quite willing 

Mr. T. (rising and extending his hand). Then I am most 
happy to connect my family with one so esteemed and ancient 
as your own; and, as a further mark of my approval, I shall 
present you on your wedding day with the Templeton tea- 
pot 

Prof. G. (nervously). Why, my dear sir, you quite over- 
whelm me. 

Mr. T. As I have no sons, it is appropriate that you should 
own this priceless heirloom (taking teapot from mantel) which, 
as you know, belonged to the Duke of Birmingham when tea 
was first introduced into England, passed into the hands of the 
Puritans in the time of Cromwell, was brought to this country 
in (Enter Mr. Leon Burnett, r.) Why, good-even- 
ing, Burnett. 

Mr. B. Good-evening, good-evening, Professor. I've come 
over to get you 

Mr. T. (pushing forward a chair). Sit down, my friend. 



8 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Mr. B. (sitting down). Haven't time, really. I just want 
you to come over to inspect my new burglar alarm — my own 
invention — greatest device of the century 

Prof. G. (fidgeting about). If you'll excuse me, I'll join 
the ladies. 

Mr. T. (smiling significantly). Certainly, certainly, Pro- 
fessor. [Exit Prof. G., l., with alacrity. 

Mr. B. (laughing). Say, does he board over here ? 

Mr. T. (sitting down). No, that is — it's a state secret, 
Burnett, but you are like one of the family ; Gates is going to 
marry Hilda. 

Mr. B. (springing up in surprise). No ? 

Mr. T. Yes. 

(Hilda appears in door L. and listens intently, unnoticed by 
the others.) 

Mr. B. He's too old. 

Mr. T. Oh, no, merely a dignified age for a girl so con- 
servatively reared as Hilda has been. She is much in advance 
of her years, I assure you. 

Mr. B. (pacing the floor thoughtfully). I don't like it. 

Mr. T. I think it a most suitable match, and I am intend- 
ing to present the happy pair with my most precious heirloom 
— the Templeton teapot. 

(Hilda disappears.) 

Mr. B. (sitting down). Now, Fanny had always planned 
Hilda for Eric — her brother, you know. By the way, we've 
just received a wire saying that he was coming this evening. I 
don't know just what time to expect him, for he comes and 
goes like a streak of lightning. I'll be glad to bring him over 
and introduce him. 

Mr. T. Do, by all means. I know him well by reputation. 
His collection of antiques is very valuable. 

Mr. B. Finest private collection in Massachusetts. Eric 
will hardly leave it. He's never even been to see us since we 
moved here. But come over to see my burglar alarm. I've 
just set it. It's going to revolutionize the catching of burglars 
in this country. 

Enter Mrs. Fanny Burnett, r., hurriedly. 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 9 

Mrs. B. Oh, Leon, Leon, the burglar alarm is going off ! 
I am sure there's a burglar in the pantry. 

Mr. B. We'll see about this. Come, Templeton. 

(Mr. T. takes a revolver f rem a drawer in the desk.) 

Mr. T. We'll catch him in the act ! 

[Exeunt Mr. T., Mr. B. a?id Mrs. B., r., hurriedly. 

Enter Hilda, l., in street costume, carry big a letter and a 
suit-case. She places letter on desk, goes to door r., 
pauses irresolutely, then goes to desk, sits down and 
buries her face in her hands. Enter Eric Dean, r., 
with overcoat and suit-case. Drops both, and approaches 
Hilda softly. 

Dean. Who do you think ? 

Hilda (springing up with a little scream). What — 
who ? 

Dean (drawing back in confusion). I — er — beg your 
pardon. (Takes off his hat.) 

Hilda. Why, it's you / 

Dean. You ? 

Hilda. Don't tell me that you're a burglar. How dare 
you come here ? 

Dean (politely). I'm not a burglar. My name is Dean — 
of Boston. I'm Mrs. Burnett's brother. I thought this was 
her house, and, as the door was open, I walked in. I took you 
for Fanny. (Looks about.) I guess I'm in the wrong place. 

Hilda (laughing). Mrs. Burnett lives next door. Mr. 
Dean, I've often heard of you, and I'm glad to know you. 
(Extends her hand.) Let me thank you again for your prompt- 
ness in rescuing me from that brute and saving my money. 

Dean (taking her hand). It was my privilege. I wish 
that I might be always near when you are in danger, Miss 

Hilda. Hilda Templeton. 

Dean (in delight). So you're Hilda. Fanny has often 
told me of you. What a dear old-fashioned name ! 

Hilda (bitterly). Yes; everything about me is old-fashioned. 
I was born in the Middle Ages, Mr. Dean. 

Dean. You hardly look it. 

Hilda. But to-night ends it all. To-morrow I shall be 
free, free to do as I please for the first time in my life. 



10 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Dean (looking at her suit-case). You're not going just as 
I'm coming ? I'd hoped that we'd be such friends. 

Hilda. I'm going to my cousin's in New York — to stay — 
forever, I guess. 

Dean (anxiously). What will you do there ? 

Hilda (with enthusiasm). Something worth while. I'll be 
an actress, or a settlement- worker, or a suffragette — I don't 
care what. 

Dean. And your parents ? 

Hilda. Hush ! They do not know that I'm going. (Goes 
to door L. and listens, tiptoes back. Speaks hurriedly.) My 
father is a collector of antiques. I've been brought up in the 
stifled atmosphere of tradition. I've never had anything that 
wasn't at least a thousand years old, or a friend that didn't 
belong to a family as ancient as that of Noah. I'm sick of 
it 

Dean. But, my dear girl, you can't ■ 



Hilda (excitedly). Listen ! Now father is planning to 
marry me to a man twice my age, who cares nothing for me, 
except as a means of acquiring the teapot — that is, all that the 
teapot stands for : a family-tree, prestige, that sort of thing. 

Dean {incredulously). The teapot? 

Hilda. Don't you know about our teapot? (Takes teapot 
from mantle.) Here it is. (Sarcastically.) It belonged to 
somebody when tea was first introduced into Europe ; it was 
seized by the Puritans under Cromwell ; it was brought to this 
country in 1680, and has been in our family for over two cen- 
turies. It's what the teapot stands for that I'm running away 
from. 

Dean (taking the teapot and examining it with the eye of an 
expert). It's a beauty — rather a harmless looking object to 
drive one away from home. 

Hilda {indignantly). Don't you dare to make fun of me ! 

Dean (setting down teapot). I was never more serious in 
my life. Listen, Miss Templeton, if you will postpone your 
departure — just a little — I will try to adjust matters. There 
are ways. Will you give me a trial? 

Hilda (reluctantly). I've been ready for days 

Dean (coming very near). Will you? 

Hilda. I've telegraphed my cousin 

Dean (taking her hand). Will you ? 

Hilda (taking teapot). If you'll take this thing and carry 
it where I'll never see it again, I'll not go- — yet. 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT II 

Dean (thawing back). I can't 

Hilda. I won't stay in the house with it another day. 

Dean. But your father 

Hilda {picking up her suit-case). Very well. Please let 
me pass, Mr. Dean. 

Dean (desperately). I'll take — anything — only don't go 
away. You mustn't. (Takes teapot.) 

Hilda. Don't ever let me see it again. Hurry. 

(Moves toward door l.) 

Dean (quickly). After I've seen Fanny, may I come back ? 

Hilda. Yes, yes, only please go now. (Sound of voices 
without door l. Hilda draws back.) I mustn't let them see 
me like this — the suit-case. 

Dean. Come this way. (Points to R.) 

Hilda. I'll go to the summer-house and wait. (Shyly.) 
Perhaps I may be there a long time, Mr. Dean. 

[Exit with suit-case, R. 

Dean (looking after her). Dear little girl ! (Shakes head at 
teapot.) Now here's a quandary : how can I get you back to 
papa without offending that divinity? Well, I can't let her go 
to New York. I'll think it over. 

(Places overcoat over arm to conceal teapot. Exit, r. , with 
suit-case. Noise without. Enter Mr. T. with a re- 
volver in one hand and dragging Dean with the other.) 

Mr. T. Caught in the act ! What does this mean ? Put 
down that teapot. (Dean obeys.) Set down the suit-case. 
(Dean obeys.) You show great discrimination for a burglar. 
You know what is valuable. 

Dean. Sir, I am not 

Mr. T. (sarcastically). You're not a burglar? You 
haven't robbed three houses on this street within a- week, I 
suppose ? 

Dean. Let me explain 

Mr. T. (dragging him toward door l.). Keep your ex- 
planations for the officers. 

Dean (helplessly). I assure you 

Mr. T. (pointing revolver at Dean). Silence ! I need no 
advice, sir. 

(Drags Dean through door L. Sound of slamming door 
without.) 



12 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Enter Mrs. T., Sue, and Prof. G., l. 

Mrs. T. {wringing her hands). What has happened ? 
Sue. It's burglars ! 

Prof. G. {picking up teapot and replacing it on mantle). 
At least, this is safe. 

Enter Mr. T., l., smiling broadly. 

Mr. T. Congratulate me : I have caught a burglar in the 
very act of carrying off the teapot, and I've locked him in the 
silver-closet ! 

Sue. The silver-closet ? 

Mr. T. He can't get out. 

Mrs. T. {sinking into a chair). He can fill his pockets with 
my spoons. 

Mr. T. The police will soon empty them. {Goes to desk.) 
I must call up the police station. Where is that telephone 
book? {Picks up Hilda's letter.) What is this? 

{Opens letter.) 

Mrs. T. {rising and going to desk). Hilda's writing ! How 
strange ! Read it, Horace ; my nerves are all unstrung. 

Mr. T. {reading). " Dear Father : I am tired of living in 
the past and being old fashioned and hearing about the teapot. 
I want to live for myself and have friends that don't belong to 
the best families. I am going to Cousin Anne's in New York; 
she will find me something to do that will keep me busy and 
happy. Don't worry about me. With love, Hilda." 

Mrs. T. Gone ! My dear child ! What will become of 
her? {Sinks into a chair.) 

Sue {wiping her eyes). She has gone to New York alone — 
at night ! {Cries audibly.) 

Prof. G. {trying to comfort Sue). My dear Miss Temple- 
ton, do not let your feelings overcome you. 

Mr. T. {glaring at Prof. G.). Why doesn't some one do 
something ? Speak ! 

Prof. G. {in embarrassment). Why — er — this is most un- 
fortunate ! 

Mrs. T. {indignantly). Unfortunate ? I should say as 
much. Horace, this is your fault. 

Mr. T. That is true. I have been buried in my work 
and have neglected my child. 

Sue. If some one went to the station 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 1 3 

Mrs. T. Why didn't we think of that before ? Professor 
Gates, run to the station. The train may not have gone. 

Prof. G. {humbly). Of course, of course, delighted to be 
of use. Where is my hat ? (Sue hands him his hat.') Thank 
you. 

Mrs. T. (following Prof. G. to the door). If you find her, 
use every argument to induce her to return. 

Prof. G. I'll do my best. [Exit, r. 

Mrs. T. If we cannot find Hilda to-night, Professor Gates 
shall go to New York in the morning. 

Sue {sharply). Why Professor Gates ? 

Mrs. T. Under the circumstances, we must, out of con- 
sideration for his feelings, allow him to make himself as useful 
as possible. 

Mr. T. This affair is most awkward. 

Mrs. T. I have a feeling that Hilda may not have gone ; 
I'm going to search the house. [Exit, l. 

Mr. T. Good heavens, Sue, we've forgotten the burglar ! 

Sue. He can't get away ; you must telephone 

Mr. T. {flying around). Where is the telephone book? 

Sue. I'll find it. [Exit, l. Mr. T. follows. 

Enter Hilda softly, r. Looks about cautiously. Sees teapot. 
Takes it and shakes it indignantly. 

Hilda (to herself). There, I knew it ! He didn't take it. 
He hasn't even come out. (Examines Dean's suit-case and 
overcoat.) He's in there now telling father and making fun 
of me. The wretch ! (Stamps her foot.) I might have 
known that I couldn't trust him. I'll go to New York now 
anyway. (Moves toward R., then comes back.) No, I'll stay 
out in the summer-house and confront him with proof of his 
perfidy. (Sees basket.) I'll dispose of this teapot too. (Hides 
teapot in basket of old clothes!) Mrs. McLaffety may find it 
useful in making the morning coffee. I'll never forgive Mr. 
Dean, never, never ! [Exit, hurriedly, R. 

Enter Mr. T., l., with telephone book, followed by Sue and 
Mrs. T., the latter in tears. 

Mrs. T. She's really gone ! 

Mr. T. (searching the telephone book). Why, I can't 
find 

Enter Mr. and Mrs. B., r. 



14 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Mrs. B. Why, of all things, Eric hasn't come. We can't 
understand it. {Looks about.~) What is the matter? 

Mrs. T. {embracing Mrs. B.). Oh, Fanny, Hilda has gone 
to New York 

Mr. T. There's a burglar in the silver-closet 

(Drops telephone book.) 

Mrs. B. Mercy on us ! A burglar ! 

Mr. B. What does this mean ? 

Mr. T. (in great agitation). A burglar was stealing the 
teapot, and I locked him in the silver-closet; and Hilda has 
run away to Cousin Anne's ! 

Mr. B. {irritably). Somebody explain. What has a burglar 
to do with Hilda ? 

Mr. T. He knew the value of the teapot. It belonged to 
the Duke of 

Mrs. T. Hilda was unhappy ; she wanted to be like other 
girls. It's all her father's fault. (Bursts into tears.) 

Mrs. B. Do I understand that there is a burglar in this 
house ? 

Mr. T. There is 

(Mrs. B. screams.) 

Sue. Calm yourself, Fanny. My brother, with great pres- 
ence of mind, grappled with the thief, relieved him of his booty, 
and has locked him in the silver-closet. 

Mr. B. Bravo ! Have you sent for the police? 

Mr. T. (picking up telephone book). I was about to tele- 
phone, when we found Hilda's note 

Mrs. T. She's tired of antiques 

Mr. , T. I have burdened the poor child too much with my 
hobbies. 

Sue. She's gone to Cousin Anne's. 

Mrs. T. And Professor Gates has gone after her. 

Mr. B. (importantly). Come, I think we'd better attend to 
that burglar ; he may escape. 

Mrs. B. (hysterically). It's the same one that set off our 
burglar alarm. Leon said that the cat did it. 

Mr. B. That may be. (Seizes telephone book.) I'll 'phone 
myself. (Starts for door &.. ; stumbles over Dean's suit-case.) 
What is this ? 

Mr. T. The burglar's suit-case. Doubtless it is full of 
booty. 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 15 

Mrs. B. {examining suit-case). The burglar's? It's my 
brother's suit-case. See, the name is on the tag, " Eric Dean." 
{All look at suit-case.) And his overcoat ! Oh, my poor 
brother has been robbed and murdered ! {Drops into a chair.) 

Mr. B. Bring along your revolver, Templeton ; I'm going 
to take a look at that burglar. 

Mrs. T. {trying to restrain Mr. T.). You'll both be 
murdered ! 

Mr. T. {pompously). I'm not afraid. 

{Exeunt Mr. B. and Mr. T., l. Sue listens at the door.) 

Mrs. B. They should not open that closet door until the 
police come. 

Mrs. T. {putting her hands over her ears). There'll be 
firing in a minute. 

Sue. They are bringing him in here ! 

(Mrs. B. screams. All retreat to farther side of room.) 
Enter Mr. T., Mr. B., #«^Dean, l. 

Mrs. B. {running to Dean and embracing him). My dear 
brother, are you alive? 

Mr. B. {to Dean). Well, this is a fine position from which 
to rescue you. {Laughs.) 

Mrs. B. {angrily to Mr. T.). How dare you lock up my 
brother ? 

Mrs. T. {weakly). Horace, what have you done ? 

Mr. T. {in great embarrassment). There is some mistake ; 
I am most grieved. However, the fact remains that I caught 
this young man in the act of stealthily removing my valuable 
teapot. 

Mrs. B. Alas, my poor brother has spent so much time over 
his old antiques that he has lost his mind ! 

Mr. T. I am ready to apologize to Mr. Dean as soon as he 
explains his — rather singular appearance in my house. 

Mrs. B. Eric, did Mr. Templeton find you carrying off the 
teapot ? 

Dean. Yes. 

Mrs. B. Have you no regard for your family ? Why did 
you do this thing ? 

Dean. I have nothing to say. 



l6 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Mrs. B. The poor boy is out of his mind. Leon, we must 
take him home. 

Mrs. T. He is as unfortunate as Hilda. Poor Hilda, gone 
from her home ? 

Dean {anxiously). Do I understand that Miss Templeton 
has already gone to New York ? 

Mr. T. We've just found this letter 

Mrs. T. How did you know ? 

Dean {quickly). It was once my good fortune to render 
Miss Templeton a slight service, in consequence of which I be- 
came aware of her plans. If you'll excuse me for a moment, I 
think that I can find her in time to persuade her from her 
purpose. 

Mrs. T. Then go, by all means ! 

Mr. B. Eric, do you know what you are doing ? 

Dean. Leave that to me. [Exit, r. 

Mrs. B. The boy is crazy ; he has never seen Hilda in his 
life. 

Mr. B. But we couldn't cross him. They say it's dangerous. 

Mrs. T. If he brings back Hilda, I'll overlook everything. 

Mrs. B. (haughtily). Rest assured, Mrs. Templeton, that 
when my brother comes to himself, he will make ample apology. 

Enter Dean and Hilda, r., the former carrying Hilda's 
suit-case. 

Mrs. T. (embracing Hilda). My dear child, are you still 
with us ? Where have you been ? 

Hilda (nervously). Mr. Dean found me in the summer- 
house and persuaded me to come in, mother. I don't want to 
go away, but I don't want to marry 

Mrs. T. There, there, child, say no more. Stay with your 
mother, and you shall do exactly as you like. (Sound of door- 
bell.) Sue, will you kindly go to the door? [ExilSvE, R. 

Mrs. B. Oh, Eric, how did you know where to find her? 

Dean (to Hilda). Miss Templeton, will you kindly con- 
vince these people that I am neither a burglar nor a lunatic? 

Hilda. Mr. Dean saved me from that horrid man this 
evening, and to reward him I gave him the teapot. He isn't 
to blame for anything. 

Enter Sue, r. 

Sue (picking up basket). Mrs. McLaffety's boy has come 
after this. 




THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT Ij 

Mrs. T. Will you kindly hand it to him, Sue? {Exit 
Sue, r., with basket.') Mr. Dean, we are doubly indebted to 
you. 

Mr. T. {shaking hands with Dean). I apologize most 
humbly ; but you must admit that appearances were against 
you. 

Mr. B. {slapping Dean on the back). You've certainly dis- 
tinguished yourself, old fellow. 

Mrs. B. {embracing Dean). And you're not crazy — not 
the least little bit ? 

Dean. I hope not. 

Mr. T. Mr. Dean, I know that you're a collector and lover 
of antiques. In appreciation of your defense and restoration 
of my daughter, I should be happy to present you with the tea- 
pot, had I not already promised it to Professor Gates, who is to 
marry Why, it's gone ! 

{Looks frantically for teapot. All look about.) 

Enter Sue, r. 

Mrs. B. Oh, Eric, you haven't 

Mr. T. Sue, where have you taken the teapot ? 

Sue. I didn't {Noise without. All run to door r.) 

The burglars ! 

Mr. T. They've got it after all ! 
Mr. B. We'll catch them yet. 

Enter Prof. G., r., hatless, very dusty and disheveled, grasp- 
ing the teapot with both hands. 

Prof. G. I couldn't find Miss Hilda, but I've saved it ! 
(Sees Hilda.) Oh — what 

(Collapses into chair. Sue fans him with newspaper. 
Mr. T. seizes teapot.) 

Mr. T. You've rescued the teapot ! 
Mrs. B. Did you fight with the burglars ? 
Mrs. T. The poor man has been handled most roughly. 
Mr. B. (grasping Mr. T.'s revolver). Which way did the 
fellows go ? 



l8 THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 

Prof. G. {regaining breatli). No burglar — the McLaffety 
boy — didn't see him — collided most forcibly ! He spilled his 
basket; the teapot rolled out. 

Mr. T. Do you mean to tell me that the McLaffety boy 
was stealing the teapot ? 

Prof. G. He denied the charge. In fact, he was very 
saucy, quite rude to say the least ; and he ran away before I 
could restrain him. 

Mr. T. Thank heaven you saved the teapot ! 

Mr. B. We'll have the urchin in the House of Correction. 

Hilda. I put the teapot in the basket. 

All (in surprise). You? 

Hilda. All my life that teapot has stood for what I detest. 
I wanted to be free from traditions and stupid conventions and 
antiques. I was going away {glancing at Dean) ; but I didn't, 
so the teapot had to. 

Mr. T. Well, this is news to me. Professor Gates, I fear 
that you will have to take your bride without the teapot. 

Prof. G. (beaming). To tell the truth, Sue and I hardly 
need even so priceless a gift as the teapot to make our happi- 
ness complete. {Takes Sue's hand.) 

Mr. T. ) ,. ... c , 

Mrs. T. j ( tn sur P rise )- Sue? 

Sue. Oh, Algernon ! 

Mr. B. (wonderingly). Say, the Professor can't be a 
Mormon. 

Mrs. B. Leon, hush 

Mr. T. Why, why, this is 



Prof. G. I have already had your consent, Mr. Temple- 
ton, so I take this happy occasion to announce 

Mr. T. (recovering himself). Surely, surely. I had for- 
gotten — the excitement of the past hour — you understand. We 
are most happy. 

Mrs. T. A most appropriate match ; the ages are so suit- 
able. 

Mr. B. (shaking hands with Prof. G.). Professor, please 
accept my congratulations. 

Dean (doing likewise). No one has introduced us, Pro- 
fessor, but I wish you joy. 

Mr. T. Hilda, can't you say something? 

Hilda (kissing Sue). I am so happy. Aunt Sue, so very, 
very glad. 

Mr. T. I've got to dispose of this teapot; for I can't have 



THE TEMPLETON TEAPOT 19 

my girl running away again. Mr. Dean, I think that you had 
better add it to your collection, as a testimonial of our 

[Holds out teapot.) 

Dean {embarrassed). Thank you, sir, I greatly appreciate 
your generosity; but — the fact is — I'm contemplating dispos- 
ing of my entire collection. 

Mr. T. Indeed, you surprise me. 

Mr. B. Eric, are you crazy? How long have you had 
that idea in your head ? 

Dean {looking at Hilda). Since I've known Miss Templeton. 

Mr. B. {laughing). I see. 

Mrs. T. I don't understand. 

Dean. I want nothing that is going to prejudice Miss Hilda 
against me, Mrs. Templeton. 

Mrs. B. {embracing Hilda). Hilda, how perfectly splen- 
did ! {Shyly.) But mayn't he have the teapot too? 

Hilda. I have no objection to Mr. Dean's having whatever 
he likes. 

Dean {taking Hilda's hand). Then I take you at your 
word, Hilda. I like you better than any heirloom in the world. 
What do you say ? 

Hilda {shyly). I can imagine conditions in which a teapot 
might be very useful. 

Mr. T. {putting the teapot into Dean's hand). It looks to 
me as if the Templeton teapot was destined to remain in the 
family. 

{All laugh.) 



CURTAIN 



New Publications 



THE HOUSE NEXT DOOR 

A Comedy in Three Acts 

By J. Hartley Maimers 

Eight males, four females. Costumes modern ; scenery, two interiors, 
not difficult. Well suited for amateur performance. Plays a full evening. 
This admirable play, made popular for two seasons by Mr. J." E. Dodson's 
striking performance of its leading part, is offered for amateur performance 
at a royalty of ten dollars. All the parts are strong and exceptionally 
well contrasted. Of especial interest to Hebrew societies from its able and 
sympathetic presentment of a man of their race. 
Price, jo cents 

CHARACTERS 

The Cotswold Family The Jacob son Family 

Sir John Cotswold, baronet. Sir Isaac Jacobson, M. P, 

Margaret, his wife. Rebecca, his wife. 

Ulrica, his daughter. Esther, his daughter. 

Cecil, his son. Adrian, his son. 

Vining, his servant. Maximilian, his servant. 

Capt. the Hon. Clive Trevor. Walter Lewis, musical agent. 

SYNOPSIS 
ACT I 
Scene. — Morning room in Sir John Cotswold's house in the 
Cotswold Park Estate, Kensington, London. 

ACT II 
Scene. — Drawing-room in Sir Isaac Jacobson's house. Next 
Door. The same afternoon. 

ACT III 

Scene. — Same as Act I. Three days later. 



MARRYING BELINDA 

A Farce in One Act 

By Grace Cooke Strong 

Four males, four females. Costumes modern ; scenery, an easy interior. 
Plays thirty minutes. An easy and entertaining little play exactly suited 
for amateur acting in schools or elsewhere. Just the sort of thing half 
way between farce and comedy that is best liked. Well recommended. 
Price, i j cents 



New Plays 



LOST— A CHAPERON 

A Comedy in Three Acts 

By Courtney Bruerton and IV. S. Mauhby 

Six male, nine female characters. Costumes modern ; scenery, an in- 
terior and an easy exterior. Plays a full evening. An excellent comedy 
with the true college atmosphere but with its scenes away from actual col- 
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This is sure to be liked by the young people for whom it is intended, and 
is strongly recommended for high-school performance. Price, 25 cents. 

CHARACTERS 
George Higgins, a Tuffs A. B. . . . Ernest S. Swenson 
Jack Abbott, ) Tuft's sub-freshmen, camp- Stanley M. Brown 
Fred Lawton, J ing with Higgins . . Arthur J. Anderson 
Raymond Fitzhenry, a Harvard student Arthur T. Hale 



Dick Norton, 1 & 7 •„ • Ernest A. Larrabee 

Tom Crosby, \ °ff- htU en £ meers • ■ Ferdinand Bryham 
Marjorie Tyndall, George's cousin: a 

Smith girl Helen J. Martin 

Alice Bennett, ") Dorothy F. Entwistle 

Agnes Arabella Bates, I ~ , . , Edith H. Bradford 

Ruth French, f J acltson S irls Marjorie L. Henry 

Blanche Westcott, J Beatrice L. Davis 
Mrs. Higgins, the chaperon. George's 

mother Effie M. Ritchie 

Mrs. Sparrow, a farmer s wife. {Not in the original cast.} 

Mandy, \^r daughters. 

SYNOPSIS 
Act I. — The Girls' Camp at Sherwood, 7 A. M. 
Act II. — The Fellows' Camp at Sherwood, 8 A. M. 
Act III. — Same as Act I, 10 A. M. 

A BRIDE FROM HOME 

A Vaudeville Sketch in One Act 

By Willis Steell 
Two male, two female characters. Costumes modern ; scene, an in- 
terior. Plays twenty minutes. A capital sketch of Hebrew life and 
character, combining good comedy with genuine pathos. Moves very 
swiftly and is very effective. Can be strongly recommended for either 
vaudeville use or for amateur theatricals. Price, ij cents. 



Novelties 

THE VILLAGE POST-OFFICE 

An Entertainment in One Scene 
By Jessie A. Kelley 
Twenty-two males and twenty females are called for, but one person 
may take several parts and some characters may be omitted. The stage 
is arranged as a country store and post-office in one. Costumes are rural 
and funny. Plays a full evening. A side-splitting novelty, full of " good 
lines " and comical incident and character. One continuous laugh from 
beginning to end. Strongly recommended for church entertainments or 
general use ; very wholesome and clean. 

Price, 25 cents 

MISS PRIM'S KINDERGARTEN 

An Entertainment in One Scene 

By Jessie A. Kelley 

Ten males, eleven females. No scenery or curtain needed ; costumes 

introduce grown people dressed as children. Plays an hour and a half. 

A modern, up-to-date version of the popular " District School," full of 

laughs and a sure hit with the audience. All the parts very easy except 

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can be got up with exceptional ease and quickness. Can be recommended. 

Price, 25 cents 

THE VISIT OF OBADIAH 

A Farce in Two Acts 
By Eunice Fuller and Margaret C. Lyon 

Thirteen females. Costumes modern ; scene, an easy interior, the same 
for both acts. Plays an hour. A clever and original play, suited for 
school or college performance. Full of incident and offers a great variety 
of character and great opportunity for pretty dressing. Irish and negro 
comedy parts. Price, 25 cents 

A PAN OF FUDGE 

A Comedy in One Act 
By Maude B. Simes 
Six females. Costumes, modern ; scene, an easy interior. Plays twenty- 
five minutes. A bright little boarding-school sketch, at once amusing and 
sympathetic ; tone high and quality good. Confidently recommended to 
young ladies as an effective piece easy to get up. 

Price, 15 ce?its 
Sent, post-paid, on receipt of price, by 

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New Plays 
MR. EASYMAN'S NIECE 

A Farcical Comedy in Four Acts 
By Belle Marshall Locke 

Six males, four females. Costumes modern ; scenery, two interiors and 
one easy exterior that may be played indoors if desired. Plays a full even- 
ing. A clever and vivacious play, full of fun and action. Mr. Easyman's 
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amusement to the audience. Irish and old maid comedy parts. Can b« 
recommended. 

Price, .25 cents 

CHARACTERS 

Mr. Stephen Easyman, a wealthy Mr. Sharpe, a detective. 

broker. Miss Judith Carroll, a maidei 

Mr. Carew Carlton, his nephew. aunt. 

Mr. Tom Ashleigh. Mrs. Easyman, ) her 

Jackson, a servant. Miss Bessie Carroll, J nieces, 

Michael Flynn. Desdemona, the ghost. 

A PAIR OF BURGLARS 

By Byron P. Glenn 

Two males, two females. One act. Costumes modern ; scenery, an 
easy interior. -Plays half an hour. A brisk little curtain raiser of the 
" vaudeville " type, moving all the time. Easy and effective ; all the parts 
young people and well-dressed. Strongly recommended. 

Price, 15 cents 

DANE'S DRESS-SUIT CASE 

By Robert C. V. Meyers 

Two males, one female. One act. Costumes modern ; scene, an easy 
interior. Plays fifteen minutes. An excellent short play to fill out a bill 
or to fill in an intermission. All action and lots of fun. All parts young 
and well-dressed. 

Price f IJ cents 



JL m« Pinero's Plays 

Price, 50 Cents Cacb 



lVIin PHANNFI Play in Pour Acts. Six males, five females. 
l"Ul'"\**lrtlillEilj Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. 
Plays two and a half hours. 

THE NOTORIOUS MRS. EBBSMITH ES'SffiS 

males, five females. Costumes, modern; scenery, all interiors. 
Plays a full evening. 

THF PRHFIir'ATF Playin Four Acts. Seven males, five 

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THF QPHnni MIQTPFQQ Farce in Three Acts. Nine males, 
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THE SECOND MRS. TANQUERAY gtt^ 

females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a 
full evening. 

CWFFT I A VFNHFR Comedy in Three Acts. Seven males, 
OTTEiLil Lil\ VfJllL/JuIV four females. Scene, a single interior, 
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THF THIiNHFRRni T Comedy in Pour Acts. Ten males, 

• nil inum/EiIVm/LiI nine females. Scenery, three interi- 
ors; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. 

\ 
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I "Ei 1 llTlEiO Scene. a single interior; costumes, modern. Plays 
a, full evening. 

THF WFAIfFR QFY Comedy in Three Acts. Eight males, 
1 HEi V? Ei/\I\.EiI\ OEi A eight females. Costumes, modern ; 
scenery, two interiors. Plays a full evening. 

A WIFE WITHOUT A SMILE S^S^SSSmBJt 

Costumes, modern ; scene, a single interior. Plays a full evening. 



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Comedy in Four Acts. 

By L.Tolstoi. Twenty? 
one males, eleven females. Scenery, c) iracteristic interiors ; cos- 
tumes, modern. Plays a full eveni'g. lecommended for reading 
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Farce in Three Acts. By 
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males, three females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, one interior. 

Acting rights reserved. Time, a full evening. Price, 50 Cents. 

Comedy in Four Acts. By Oscak WlLDE. 

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NATHAN If AI P Play in Four Acts. By Clyde Fitch. Fifteen 
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Comedy in Four Acts. By C. H. 

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